3 minute read
Another Side of Margaret O'Rourke Doherty, Network Manager, Image Skillnet
What did you do before you became Network Manager with Image Skillnet?
I have reinvented myself a number of times throughout my career. I have a strong background in management and leadership in a range of sectors including hairdressing, sales and marketing, floristry, agriculture, and food.
Tell us about the work you do with Image Skillnet and plans for the future?
Image Skillnet is a dedicated training national network that supports workforce development in the hair and beauty sector. Our network supports SMEs nationwide to gain the skills needed to develop their organisations in an enterprise-led manner. The network was established in 2017, and has seen significant growth due to the demands from industry. Our aim in the next few years is to extend the supports we offer our members.
What interests do you have outside of work?
Outside of work, I am married to Trevor and I have two amazing daughters. My priorities are about raising children with strong values, spending time with my family, and trying to maintain a level of fitness while enjoying life! If I am honest, work-life balance is an area I struggle with. I am very passionate and I really enjoy my work, so I often find work creeping into my personal time. This requires making a continuous effort not to let this happen.
You have been involved with community activities, why?
I believe we all have a social responsibility to make this world a better place. I love being part of positive change, and have been involved with a variety of charities, projects and social enterprises for years.
Tell us about the fundraising activities you’ve done over the years?
Over the years, I have actively fundraised for charities such as Concern, Jack & Jill, Down Syndrome Ireland, and Cystic Fibrosis. I have also traveled to Kolkata (formerly Calcutta) as a volunteer with Hope Foundation, as well as volunteering my time with a range of community groups and boards.
How did the trip to Kolkata affect you?
What I witnessed was powerful and impactful. So many people have so little and living in conditions that are unjust and inhuman - yet they are rich in the things that matter; family and love. This is something that is often taken for granted by so many. This trip also reaffirmed that things change by Helping One Person Every day, by paying it forward, respect, and inclusion.
Do you believe businesses being involved in their community or with charities, can benefit their business and why?
Absolutely. It is vital that a business strives to fulfil their corporate social responsibility, and it is also a baseline expectation by consumers. The reputational benefit to a business in terms of PR can be great, as your customers will associate your brand with having a social conscience and as an organisation that gives back.
There are often multiple ways of supporting, and it isn’t always about cash - expertise can often be more valuable than money. Releasing employees to volunteer can also have the additional benefit to the business of building engagement.
Finally, it is important to let your customers know about the good work your organisation is doing.
How has the work you’ve done impacted or been influential in your business life?
Image Skillnet was established through a vast amount of volunteerism - our board and steering group are all voluntary and give freely of their time to support the industry. My experience to date has strongly influenced my business life and has continually fuelled the develop of an innovative social enterprise that responds to the needs of its members. F
ind out more about Image Skillnet here. A series that highlights the lives and interests of ISME members and staff.
